Is your waste policy a recipe for disaster?

FAST food businesses are being urged to ensure their policy on waste control is no recipe for disaster. Pest experts say the correct disposal of waste is vital to minimise the threat of an infestation and is one of the most neglected areas of the food industry.

The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) are calling on operators to review their procedures during winter months in a bid to avoid potential issues later in the year.

Dee Ward-Thompson at the BPCA said: “The vast majority of established food businesses will be well aware of the damage that pests can do to their business, Yet the disposal of waste is an area where environmental health officers continue to see major issues. Pests such as rats, mice, ants and flies will quickly collect where waste food is left hanging around and infestations can take hold quickly without being easily detected. Once there’s an infestation, they can then get into other parts of the premises quite easily if the building structure is inadequately proofed.”

The Food Safety Act and Food Hygiene Regulations lay down general requirements for all operators and the BPCA says there’s little margin of error.

The BPCA says pest management in fast food premises should not only be designed to prevent pests, but also reduce the conditions that help them to survive if they did become established. Businesses which suspect an infestation of any kind should deal with it sooner, rather than later – taking note of any sightings and calling on an expert to tackle the issue.

The BPCA insists it’s far more efficient, and often more cost-effective, to take out a contract with a professional company before any problems arise. Business can find a qualified company in their area by using the Find A Pest Controller search tool at www.bpca.org.uk

The British Pest Control Association is the leading UK trade association representing organisations with a professional interest in the eradication of public health pests.

It is a not-for-profit organisation which acts in the interests of members and on behalf of the pest management industry in the UK.

The Association places great importance on promoting the highest standards of professionalism within the industry and all organisations must prove their competence before membership is accepted.

It highlights risks of inadequate control, offers guidance in searching for a pest control contractor, provides general pest advice and guidance documentation.